A gorgeous day at Kure Beach, North Carolina.*
Looking for a great weekend getaway? North Carolina offers some of the best beaches and affordable family fun, especially at Kure Beach! Conveniently located less than two hours away from North Carolina’s two largest military bases, Fort Bragg and Camp Lejune, the area is sure to offer something for everyone with its military history and influence.
Kure Beach is an ideal landing spot for exploration of the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and the North Carolina Military History Museum. Within close proximity is the Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area, which provides a variety of great accommodations for visitors. With military-friendly lodging options and activities, military travelers and their loved ones can unwind and relax together in a small town atmosphere this fall with fewer crowds, off-season lodging rates and mild temperatures.
For more information, read on and choose Kure Beach as your next great Fall Getaway Destination!
Kure Beach – Fort Fisher.*
Just a Short Drive from Base
Kure Beach is located within an easy drive of North Carolina’s many military bases. Centrally located on the East Coast, the area is North Carolina’s most accessible coastal destination. The major east/west interstate transportation artery I-40 leads directly to nearby Wilmington, which is also served by U.S. highways 17, 74/76, 117 and 421. The area also features convenient access to the state’s numerous interstate highways.
Home Away from Home
Just a short walk from the beach lies Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area which is home to vacation units, multiple camping sites and RV areas reserved exclusively for military personnel, veterans or eligible patrons with a current Department of Defense identification card. Recently updated units range from one-bedroom to four-bedrooms and are equipped with linens, towels and basic kitchenware; some even include a washer and dryer. For a more intimate getaway for two, look no further than Darlings by the Sea to reserve a romantic oceanfront suite. A complete list of motels, beach cottages and other lodging options available for every size group and budget is available online at http://www.visitkurebeachnc.com.
Kure Beach Fishing Pier.*
Relax and Enjoy Nature
Kure Beach’s laid-back atmosphere provides military personnel and their loved ones with an abundance of ways to relax. The peaceful beach is a perfect spot to watch a beautiful sunrise or enjoy a leisurely stroll. The beach is a short walk from the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, one of the oldest fishing piers on the Atlantic Coast and a great place to drop a line or enjoy the view. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area has nearly six miles of beach and salt marsh trails that are home to a variety of wildlife. Or rent a kayak to spend the afternoon exploring Kure Beach by water. Zeke’s Island Reserve, an important shorebird habitat accessible only by boat, is one of the most unusual areas of the North Carolina coast.
North Carolina Aquarium, Fort Fisher.*
Entertainment Just Steps from Your Door
Kure Beach may have a small town feel, but it is big on things to do. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher has been named a top 20 aquarium in the U.S. multiple times and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Home to more than 2,500 animal residents ranging from an albino alligator to baby sea turtles, the aquarium offers a special military rate of $11.95. And be sure to make time during your visit for events like the 23rd Annual Pleasure Island Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival ** on Oct. 8-9, the Pleasure Island Surf Fishing Challenge on Oct. 21-23, or the Cape Fear Kite Festival on Nov. 5.
Fort Fisher Historic Site.*
Military Tributes
Visit Fort Fisher State Historic Site to learn about the history of the Civil War’s largest land and sea battle. Explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits, along with notable artifacts. Then stop by the North Carolina Military History Museum, which pays tribute to all branches of the military. Visitors can see military vehicles, artifacts and exhibits from all branches of service and previous wars.
Make your plans today and come visit us!
Contributed by Leah Knepper On behalf of the Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau
*All Photos Courtesy of the Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau
**Rescheduled until the spring due to Hurricane Matthew
